Plastics are innovative materials. They make new products possible and drive technological progress like hardly any other material.
Some plastics are subject to legal regulations which limit their application. Currently many countries are strengthening the regulations.
Plastics made from polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) do not release substances that are regulated by law. They are a pioneers of economic, environmental and social progress.
No chlorine (Cl)
Chlorine chemistry is strictly regulated worldwide. Since it is toxic and persistent, special measures are needed in the handling of chlorine in order to protect the population and the environment.
No bisphenol A (BPA) and no bisphenol S (BPS)
Bisphenol is mutagenic, carcinogenic, toxic to fetal development and damages fertility due to a hormone-like effect (estrogenic and androgynous effects). It is prohibited in many countries.
Further reading
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC): Link
European Commission, Directorate-General Environment: Link
Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, REACH: Link
European Chemicals Agency: Link
Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals, REACH (Europäische Chemikalienverordnung) regarding endocrine disruptors: Link
Commission Directive 2014/81/EU: Link
BIBRA Toxicology Advice & Consulting: Link
Réseau Environnement Santé (RES): Link
Sustainable development equally takes into account the environment, the economy and society. It meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the capability of future generations. Lützelschwab Consulting AG is committed to long-term sustainable solutions in the card market.
The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analyses the environmental impacts of products during their entire life cycle based on the approach "from cradle to grave". Studies show that polyester complies with the principles of sustainability in its entire life cycle.
The recent development from the polyester family is called Tritan™ and is characterized by its above-average durability. This leads to a longer service life of the card which significantly reduces the costs (economy of scale).
Further reading
Items such as disposable plates and cutlery, cotton swabs and buds, drinking straws and beverage stirrers. By 2029 90% of all plastic bottles must also be collected separately. Plastic bottles will also be required to contain increasing amounts of recycled plastic; 25% by 2025 and 30% by 2030. (European Parliament resolution of 27 March 2019, acts A8-0317/2018).
Plastic recycling can make a very significant contribution to the recycling economy. From the recycled sneaker to the 100% recycled water bottle through to the recycled car seat cover, plastic is returned to the economic cycle and flawlessly performs its new function. A plan covering the entire life cycle of the material is important. The advantages are manifold; energy is used more efficiently, CO2 emissions are reduced, the ecological balance is improved and resources are conserved.
Lützelschwab Consulting AG is also committed to the recycling of plastics and, together with Folienwerk Wolfen, offers a solution for recycling this valuable secondary raw material as cards and films. Today we can offer films made from over 70% recycled PET.
Lützelschwab Consulting AG
Wylerringstrasse 29A
CH – 3014 Bern, Switzerland
welcome@smart-ecofilms.com
Landline: +41 33 841 24 24
